Evaluating lotion transfer to skin from feminine protection products

Adding lotions or emollients to the surface of a variety of paper products improves overall consumer comfort. Techniques to measure lotion transfer to skin are needed.

Two approaches were compared to assess lotion transfer from impregnated feminine pads: (1) pad application to the popliteal fosssa, an adaptation of the previously described 'behind-the-knee (BTK)' test model, and (2) a clinical in-use study in which pads were worn in the usual manner. In both approaches, dressings attached to the skin were used to absorb lotion transferred from the pad. Lotion transfer was first evaluated after 3 h in both protocols, and then after either 6 h (BTK method) or after and 24 h (clinical use test).

In the BTK model, lotion transfer was a function of both the total amount of lotion contained on the topsheet and the type of absorbent material in the core of the pad. Pads containing absorbent gelling material transferred lotion more effectively than pads containing cellulose absorbent cores. In the in-use clinical study, the results were directionally similar, but statistical significance was not reached.

An adaptation of the BTK test method provides an effective means of evaluating the transfer of lotion formulations from feminine protection pads.